Every week we bring you a featured blogger who inspires us. This week we’re so excited to share with you Sophie of Sophie Mae Style! Sophie Mae is the premiere fashion stylist in Orange County, Los Angeles and San Diego. She has dedicated her career to teaching women to embrace their own unique sense of style. Her passion for fashion grew while working with Teen Vogue and through her experiences she sharpened her eye for color, shape and design while working with several industry professionals. Read more about Sophie here.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?
I have been in the fashion industry for over 10 years. I began my career as an intern with Teen Vogue magazine, helping with everything from promotional events to assisting at runway shows. I then worked a series of retail jobs with companies such as Estee Lauder, Barney’s New York and Madewell. During that time, I was able to build my clientele in Orange County, Los Angeles in San Diego as a personal fashion stylist and went full time in 2011. I have been styling personal clients, editorial fashion shoots and catalogs ever since! I also have a website and blog called SophieMaeStyle.com, where I share the latest fashion trends and outfit ideas with my clients and readers.
What 3 words would you use to describe yourself?
Driven, bold and creative.
What Profession other than yours would you love to attempt?
I always say that I would like to be a reporter for 60 Minutes. I know, totally different than working in fashion, but I’m obsessed with that show and the idea of story telling in media.
What is your favorite quote?
“You’re imperfect, and you’re wired for struggle, but you are worthy of love and belonging.” – Brene Brown
What inspired your blog?
I started blogging when I was 15. This is when fashion blogging was just starting to be a thing. I was inspired by the pioneers like Tavi of Style Rookie, Susie Buddle and Jane Aldridge of Sea of Shoes. I just loved how they were able to express themselves through their outfits and share them with readers worldwide. I knew that this trend of blogging was going no where soon, so I hopped on the bandwagon and I’ve been blogging ever since!
What is your favorite social media platform and why?
Instagram. That is my jam. I am a very visual person, so seeing a feed of images each day inspires me. I’ve also made some great real life connections through Instagram, which I think is so fun!
Where do you find inspiration for blog posts?
My clients are my number one source of inspiration for my posts. I work with women who are who are looking to learn about the latest fashion trends and how to wear them. I try to make my outfit posts as obtainable and “real” as possible. That’s why I often mix higher-end pieces with more affordable items. I like to think that my blog is for the “every day gal” who just loves expressing herself through her outfits.
What do you think it is about your blog that keeps people coming back for more?
I think it all comes back to relating to my readers. I am always looking for ways to solve my client’s wardrobe issues. I like to showcase outfits that are really wearable and that my readers can actually purchase and rock in the real world. I think it’s that authenticity that keeps them coming back for more.
How does a brand get your attention for a feature?
I always try to work with brands that are true to my personal style and that would resonate with my readers. If I like the story behind the brand, the quality of the product or simply the look/feel of the items, I work with them. My goal is to always feature items that stay true to the Sophie Mae Style reader.
What do you love most about blogging?
I honestly love everything about blogging! I just adore the idea that we live in an age where a 26-year-old girl like me can make a living sharing her passion for style with the world. I consider myself very lucky to do what I love on a daily basis!
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Hopefully I’ll still blogging away! There will probably be some stylish little kiddos making an appearance in my posts and hopefully there will be lots more travel photos. I would also love to be teaching other fashion stylists and bloggers how to break into the industry. I love sharing my experience with others looking to start their own businesses.
In your opinion, what separates a great blog from an unsuccessful blog?
I am a true believer in producing high-quality images and content that is unique to your voice and style. I try to always make my outfit posts as authentic as possible because I believe that is what makes a blog truly successful.
